so what did you think of the journey???

This is our last entry, and we've decided to do a team entry reflecting on the journey through the Creativity module in the first semester. As a group, we all enjoyed the module. The first result was that it brought the initial four of us (with Shizuka) together, Shizuka dropped out after week 2, and as the weeks progressed the remaining three of us became good friends.  We realised that one of the benefits of this module was to stop people feeling isolated or alone within the class by forcing them into working as a team. It worked for us anyway.

Maggie here, what I found strange was the people siobhan teamed me up with were the only four people I had met in the first few days - and we were all mature students. At the beginning I complained a lot about this module, thinking it was a complete waste of time and energy, but as the weeks went on, I really started to enjoy it, being creative around the blogs, newsletters and presentation.

Olga here, I have positive feelings about the module. I met lovely people and I'm hoping they're going to be good friends for life and not just for Christmas!! I found the module really intensive, but enjoyable.

Andy here, from a position  of knowing very little about the world of technology, I now know a little more, thanks to my team mates, and I certainly would have been lost without them, as they continue to baffle me with their i.t. knowledge. The newsletter and presentation element I really enjoyed, and the Prezi programme certainly will be used again!

As a group, we found the course stimulating and enjoyable in the main BUT......... We felt there was a lot of work, using technology that we were unfamiliar with, and spent a lot of frustrating and stressful times trying to figure it out. However, it was fun, and looking back we had many laughs together as a team. So thank you Siobhan, for forcing us together and whipping us into shape. All the best

Herbal Innovations

sure aren't we brilliant!

Well the end of the first semester is nigh. Yesterday we had our physics lab assessment, and today we had our anatomy lab assessment - tissue identification. I didn't do great, I tend to panic in exam situations and forgot to take my rescue remedy!!! I only got three right out of 6. Hope I do better in the plant identification in Clonakilty tomorrow! We thought that because of the weather we'd have it in the college instead of traipsing out to Clonakilty - it's a tiring day, we leave the college at 10, arrive Clon at 11, and our class starts and 1.30.  I'm always worn out by the time the class starts, I don't expect to be bouncing with mental energy for the exam tomorrow.

We have our physiology exam monday at 11am, and just found out we have chemistry at 12pm, now that will be a stressful day. Physics on Thursday 9th and then we're done. The night of the 9th is the mature students'  society dinner, and me, Andy and Sarah will be going. Olga has to work so she won't make it, and we think everyone else in the class is just too young - sorry lads and lassies, you'll have to form your own society for the under 25s.

Anyway, wish us luck for the next week and a half!

On the bright side - our group, Herbal Innovations, gave our presentation yesterday on Rescue Remedy, and Siobhan said we were only brilliant. We've been massaging our egos since. It's my birthday this Thursday and was hoping to do dinner for the group, but with 2 exams on Monday morning might be a good idea to have a sober weekend instead! I'll think about it the next couple of days.

Planet (college) terror

The week of terror is starting tomorrow.  Five exams in the same week... Starting with physics practical on Monday, anatomy practical on Tuesday, botany theory and practical on Wednesday and anatomy theory on Thursday... Bring on Friday, I’m begging you!!! Happy I’ve finished all my lab reports last week and I’m finishing up my botany project now. Spent all the weekend trying to study and the only things I remember are that a banana is actually a berry and a strawberry is actually not a fruit!! Do you think that is crazy? Learning the names of 100 plants in Latin is crazier I suppose. My brain can’t hold any more information. The cold temperature in the house doesn’t help with studying. It’s time to take some gingko biloba tablets, and increase the flow of blood to the brain. Going back to study... not a happy bunny L Santa where are you?

The pressure is on now! All our exams are lining up - Physics lab practical next Monday, Anatomy practical Tuesday, Botany theory AND practical Wednesday, and Anatomy theory on Thursday!!! Unfortunately since the last set of exams, there was such a downturn in energy that few of us have opened a book since then. time for some serious study over the weekend. It was the Christmas party yesterday in the Bishopstown Bar, a sign of how seriously our class is taking this course is that we ALL attended lectures yesterday, and gave the bar a miss. At the sight of all those drunken students stumbling home and sick all over the place, was so glad not to be involved in that carry on.  Got a humdinger of a chemistry homework to look at over the weekend. The half life of isotopes - no pressure. We're working in groups to try and get our heads around it. Still unable to download sample questions from physiology, bloody test gen programme! so once again we enter our physiology exam with no point of reference. Ok will stop complaining. Olga and Andy sang to me earlier to cheer me up, but wouldn't let me video tape them! maybe later ..... secretly.

'' Are We There Yet''

   Are we there yet,are we there yet ???,Yes the first semester is almost over,it's hard to believe it but next Monday is the beginning of week 12. As you can imagine this is a busy busy time with projects,practicals and write-ups all to be completed before next Friday,many of the practicals have come to an end which now will allow us to look over our notes before the dreaded exams begin in earnest.
   All in all the first semester really has flown by,the old adage of time flies when you're having fun does not adequately reflect the time and effort that has gone into the first term. Everyone is feeling a little drained to be perfectly honest but of course there'll be plenty of time to recharge the batteries between then and our return to college in early '11.So for the time being it's more head down and rear up !!!

Three happy bunnies

Well the Herbal Innovations Team are very happy bunnies today. We got our chemistry results and we all did very well. Olga and Maggie got 59% and Andrew got a whopping 69%. Now to those of you who have an honours degrees in Chemistry this may not seem like a big deal, but to us it's huge and we're absolutely delighted with ourselves!! After the tears, the trauma, the stress, the sleepless nights, the long hours studying and cramming it all in, the endless blogs moaning about chemistry, we got our just reward. We celebrated afterwards with a cup of tea. Can't get complacent though, we have to prepare now for the next set of exams in three weeks time. Onwards and upwards :)

''MUSH MUSH MUSH''

 Oh how the weeks seem to fly by,Christmas fare already for sale in the shops and the evenings starting to darken shortly after 4,if I had a goose I'm sure he'd be piling on the adipose tissue at this stage.Unfortunately my to-do list seems to piling up as well,so many things to do and such little time,haven't begun to open a book from a study point of view yet and beginning to wonder when I'll get this much-valued and underappreciated time.Still hoping to get back to dear ol' Donegal this weekend weather-permitting,it's been a while and the next chance I'll get will be post-Christmas exams.

   Last Monday morning was a terrible shock to the system as the roads on my journey in to the College were like a bottle and even though I'm from Donegal which is closer to the Arctic Circle than Cork is,that doesnt mean I'm good on icy roads.Sincerely hoping we don't have a lot of ice and frost between now and next Spring,many more mornings like this and I'll have to start self-medicating,(herbally of course)Either that or ask the big jolly bearded fellow in the red suit,who also has a lengthy pre-Christmas list, for a sleigh and some pack-dogs !!!What would my Butcher's bill be then ?

10 tips for studying

 

Ten Tips - Studying

Make studying a part of your everyday school routine and don't be limited to 'cramming' for exams and tests.

1. Establish a routineSet aside a particular time each day for study and revision and stick to it.
2. Create a study environmentThis should be away from interruptions and household noise, such as the television. Ensure there is adequate lighting and ventilation, a comfortable chair and appropriate desk.
3. Set a timetable
   With a timetable you can plan to cover all your subjects in an organised way, allotting the appropriate time for each without becoming overwhelmed.
4. Look after yourselfDrink plenty of fluids, especially water, and eat healthy foods. Keep sugary foods to a minimum. Make sure you get enough sleep each night. Regular physical exercise makes you feel great, boosts your energy and helps you relax. So try to keep up regular sporting activities or at least fit in some regular exercise as often as you can.
5. Reward yourself for studying
   Watch your favourite television program, spend time with your friends, walk to the park and play sport throughout the week.
6. Have variety in your study program
   Study different subjects each day and do different types of work and revision in each study session.
7. Avoid interrupting your concentrationHave all the appropriate materials with you before you start a session of study to minimise distractions.
8. Test yourself on what you have studied
   Ask your parents or family members to quiz you on what you have learnt, use draft questions from books, past assessments or major exam papers.
9. Don't panic at exam time
   If you have followed a study routine and have been revising your class work, there should be no need to worry. Try to keep yourself calm, positive and confident.

10. Ask your teachers for guidance
    Especially if you're having trouble - whether it's grasping a new concept or understanding something you learnt earlier in the year. They will be happy to help.

''Post Traumatic Stress Disorder''

   Following my first bout of exams in a long long time and the associated increased levels of stress,tension and anxiety I now feel jaded,tired,apathetic,devoid of energy and motivation.Could I be suffering from the above mentioned;''Post Traumatic Stress Disorder'' ???.It's not a joke or laughing matter but trying to start back into the pre-exam routine is just not happening.The ''thrill'' is gone.!
   Following the Herbal Society dinner last Sunday night and having met with some of the more senior classes it was encouraging to hear that the first semester is generally regarded as the toughest and most time consuming,energy-sapping,will-breaking term .Why did you not tell the lecturers this before we freshers began last September ? Of course they would have eased off on the workload had they been informed;is it a rite of passage that all Herbal Students must suffer through or is it the glue that binds the students of this faculty together,either way  'cheers guys' but there's not much that can be done about it now but grin and bear it till mid December.When I had the chance I should have asked them for some herbal remedy to sooth my present state of mind !!!

Sure a change is as good as a rest

Emer, Maggie, Sarah and Andy in Emer's auntie's cafe, Hart's, Main Street, Clonakilty 3rd November 2010

Well last week a few of us decided that a break from the norm was in order! We took the bus to Clonakilty Agricultural College as usual, and asked the bus driver to carry on to Clonakilty town and drop the four of us off. The bus driver was very obliging, and went via the scenic route around the coast road, pointing out local sites of interest, passing through a lovely little village with a couple of good music pubs and the best pint of guiness in West Cork. At 11 am on a Wednesday morning we weren't tempted to inbibe, so carried on to Clonakilty where he gave us a tour of the town and dropped us off on the main street.

Straight to Emer's auntie's cafe where we met her Granny, Mammy, Uncle, Brother and Nephew, and had a grand breakfast to set us up for the day. Twas a rainy old day as we ambled round Clon, checking out the charity shops and the health food store. Then Emer's Mammy very kindly drove us all back to the college, in time for desert and a cup of tea. Although we all moan about having to go to Clonakilty every Wednesday, it's a lovely break in the week, the college is in a beautiful environment with fabulous views of the sea.

The food in the canteen is great, good wholesome home cooking, and you get your main course, meat, spuds and veg,  (no scope for vegetarians here), your dessert, your pint of milk and your tea or coffee for a fiver. The canteen staff are lovely and friendly, and their main concern is that everyone has eaten, and that there's no food left over at the end of the day.

After a 2 hour lecture, most of us have lost the will to live, but a trip to the greenhouse, followed by a spot of plant identification around the fields usually revives the spirit. The bus picked us up at 5ish, and we were back to C.I.T. by 6. Twas a grand day altogether, and we didn't speak about Chemistry, Physics, Exams etc for the whole day. Sure a change is as good as rest.

Week nine is starting tomorrow; we are now in November which means only a few weeks left until our Christmas break. I’m counting the days now. Very busy with college work, loads of lab reports to write and exams just around the corner. Got results for previous anatomy and physics exams and I’m pretty happy with them. Waiting for the rest to come so fingers crossed. The Herbal Herald volume 2 is coming this week. In the newsletter I will be talking about Ginkgo biloba and its influence on memory. We are going to upload it on the blog so you are all very welcome to look at it.

Hello!

Hello everyone! This is Shizuka. I deferred attending the Herbal Science course until the 2011 semester as I found it difficult to fully understand one lecture without official course notes. I have been studying the subject in question at home and intend to do so until the commencement of the Herbal Science course next year.
My best wishes to you all.

''Instant or Deferred Gratification'', ???

 Just finished the first series of exams and the results back so far are reasonably credible,Dv. However the thoughts revolving in my head of late are; is this the way my life at CIT is going to be while at College,Where is all my free or me time going ?; Why am I here ?; and of course can I stick it for the next four years or so ?
  Plenty of Questions but what about the answers!! The truth of the matter is that I find the whole area of Herbalism absolutely fascinating and I personally believe that it will be even more popular in the years to come.As a non standard mature first year I don't mind the fact that I'll be even older when I graduate,it's all about ''deferred gratification''.It's as much about the journey as about reaching the destination.
  Had a little walk about Clonakilty yesterday morning with some of the girls,Maggie and Sarah from the class and it was a relaxing break away from the books and next sunday night the Herbal Soc. are meeting in the city for a meal which should be fun or maybe even some much needed ''Instant Gratification''.I really need to find the right balance right here,right now,right !!!

Herbal Innovations Team Meeting

Olga, Andy and Maggie at a team meeting

This is us at a planning meeting for the Herbal Herald. Andy had done an interview with an Organic Herbal Cream Maker, so we downloaded the video onto the blog, and started planning the newsletter. Olga is doing an article on Ginko, Andy has done the interview and will write a piece about Herbal Medicine, and I'm thinking of doing an article on Arnica. We're a little bit behind schedule because of the exams the last two weeks, so we're all having to put in extra time to get back on track.

The new team - Herbal Innovations



olga, andy and maggie





the original team, shizuka, andy, maggie and olga

We felt it was time we updated our blog photo. We once were 4, and now we're 3. Shizuka left the course early on. So here's a couple of photos of the team as we are now, Olga, Andy and Maggie. As a team we feel we're cohesive and productive - meeting all our deadlines anyway, though still trying to figure out Mahara!!! So this is what we look like at week 8, a little bit worse for wear? I hope not!

 

chasing my own tail

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKPLadEJSgw

Just when we thought it was safe to go back in the water, we have a date for our physiology exam!! The class was behind on the curriculum, so we're playing catch up. I think it's safe to say that few of us have put the work into this subject, cos most of us were so consumed with chemistry and physics!! Personally I'm feeling a lot more relaxed about things since the bulk of the exams are over. We got our Anatomy results today and I was delighted with my results - I did a lot better than I would have even three weeks ago, but I really pushed myself to put the work in! It shows though - made a couple of team work videos today and I look wrecked! We're all out in Clonakilty tomorrow, and a few of us have decided to head into Clonakilty town before our class begins and have breakfast, check out the town..... We should get our botany results tomorrow, and physics results Thursday. Still anxiously waiting the Chemistry results, hope it's this week so it's over with!
I feel less like a headless chicken, but definitely chasing my own tail!
Maggie

hail hydrogen

well that was the roughest week since I started this course.... and yes, I am praying for divine intervention. Anxiously awaiting results for chemistry, physics, anatomy and botany. Missed my class on Friday morning, the first class I've missed since I started the course,  (not quite true, missed a day in Clonakilty, but I was house hunting at the time) was mentally and physically drained after the last two weeks that I couldn't get out of bed! I'm 5 days late with this blog, a sign of the pressure building up. Just spent the last hour trying to download a video and i think i was successful - looking rough though! On the bright side, I was better prepared for the exams than I would have been even 3 weeks ago, and trying to be optimistic, because the universe IS listening!

so tired

Thank god the worst week so far in college is finally over. Three exams in one week were way too much. I’m worn out. My brain is sore and I feel like have no energy at all. I’m trying to recover and store some energy for next week, by doing absolutely nothing. Slept 12 hours today and sat in front of the telly for about 6 hours. Feeling so lazy... Unfortunately tomorrow I have to write 4 lab reports for next week – I hate reports, they take so long to write up and they are not worth that much. The weather is absolutely horrible, poor little kids, Halloween is tomorrow but I have a feeling that no one is going to knock on my door. Feeling so tired and those rainclouds make me feel even more tired. Hate this weather. Looking forward to the Christmas break now, counting the days until I finish the first semester in CIT. I just wish I could have more free time...

''It's Deja Vue all over again''

  
YIPEE,Yes finally the first blast of exams has come and gone at CIT and I'm still reasonably sane,it's really such a weight off my mind and I feel like celebrating,that's not to say that they all went well,it's just that they're all over,[for the timebeing at least].It's like reliving the Leaving Cert. all over again,deja vue and all that.
    Will aim to get back to dear ol' Donegal this weekend,it's been a good few weeks and I'll probably have those well-deserved post-exam celebratory drinks that I feel I'm well entitled to.
      On a more down to Earth and less inspiring note winter has come with a bang and the bedroom light now needs to be turned on in the mornings,still with the time changing this weekend it'll be Christmas fairly soon and I'll end up with that pre exam ''deja vue'' feeling all over again.Groundhog day or what !!!

Rain, rain, go away, come again another day

I spent Saturday and Sunday stuck in my room studying for my three exams next week and just as I decided to go out for a nice walk today, it started to rain. So depressing and yet not surprising! Anatomy exam tomorrow morning, going to bed early tonight- hoping to dream about the fluidity of a cell membrane... 9 o’clock is a very early time for any brain exercise so a big flask of strong coffee is essential. Botany test on Wednesday and physics on Thursday... The week hasn’t even started yet and I’m already thinking about next weekend! So pathetic! Week 7 is starting tomorrow which means 5 weeks to go!!! Scary.

''Cometh the hour,Cometh the Man''or ''A Time to Conquer''

   'Tis the eve before the first exam,chemistry and all is deadly quiet,all the electrons just like my energy levels are in their lowest orbitals possible and the story of Mendeleev having been learnt and relearnt as in the days of old,does not seem to be materialising anywhere,period.Even though we're in the very middle of ''shag week'' the ionics and covalents are refusing to bond and the atomic weights are weighing heavily on the old grey matter.What have I let myself in for for the next four years or so.?
   My heart is low,so low as only a woman's heart can be?
      I came,saw and conquered many exams in my past,so Cometh the hour,cometh the man is the only adage to keep me going in this my hour of need,Imagine chemistry falling in the middle of''shag week'',the irony {Fe++}of it all,Sometimes I think there's more to the beauty that lies within the chaos theory than lies in the eye of this beholder,,but then again what has chemistry got to do with anything that's important in life !!!

atomic shatomic

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK7wuTwAiBU

Just realised it's Wednesday morning and I haven't posted my blog! We were supposed to have our botany exam today but it was cancelled cos the lecturer had a bereavement. Don't know the full details but sorry for your loss Joe.
So instead of spending the morning studying for my chemistry exam tomorrow I'm checking out videos on You Tube. Put in a link that I hope goes through - click on it for some learning by song. Kind of Sesame Street for science. Enjoy.
maggie

Study tips

Exams next week... Some tips for ya

Actually there are no short cut to success this is the first thing you should remember. For this reason you have to study well first of all. But the preparations are different for different types of exams. Some competitive exams need long term preparation while your school level exam may need preparation of one or two weeks.
The 1^st tip : Never fear or hate exam and be confident.
Some students study well but still may be much afraid of exams and due to this reason they get distracted and won't be able to score marks.So leave all your fears and free your mind before starting the study. You have to be confident and it is the most essential power you should have for attaining victory.

The 2^nd tip: Prepare a good time table.
Prepare a time table before starting the study. This should include all the subjects but may not be with equal priority. Tough subjects can be given more time and easier ones less but most importantly some time shall be allotted for entertainment and also there should be sufficient intervals between each subject.
The 3^rd tip: Select a proper atmosphere for studying.
No need to explain this point. Study atmosphere has very important role. Can anyone study well while watching TV? So select a place where you feel comfortable. That is where you feel relaxed and can concentrate. And you have to make sure that while you are studying a subject you are concentrating on it only. So keep the books of other subjects away from your eyesight so that you won't be upset about the things you have to learn. And importantly it is better to study early morning when all the surroundings will be in silence and you can concentrate more. Your concentration really counts. Never place a mirror in the room such that you will  ur reflection while sitting to study. This will lead to lack of concentration. And one top secret Study facing eastor more accurately North east. This will give you great positive energy and your marks will definitely increase.
The 4th tip : Sit well
This is so important that you have to sit in proper manner while studying. Don't study on bed or lying on a chair instead sit straight. Keep your spinal cord straight. And try to place your legs parallel to ground, a little bit raised from the ground. Other wise placing the legs on the ground causes ionization and induces sleep. And be alert that legs are not above the head level. This will affect the blood flow direction and causes sleepiness. It is better to place the legs almost parallel to ground but a little lower.
The 5^th tip : Make notes while studying.
This is a very important point. While studying make small notes and that should not be descriptive make theme brief so that you can remember all points while doing revision with the help of that note. An ideal note shall include all important formulae and figures and also other important points. It will be a lot worth if you use this not for the revision in last one or two hours than u skipping through pages of your text book. It won't take much time to go through this note and if you feel tough anywhere you can refer for that portion in text book.
The 6^th tip: Sleep well and Eat well.
You have to sleep well.Sleep deprivation study shows that Optimum hrs for sleep is 6hrs. Especially on the night before exam you have to sleep well, atleast 6 hours and not more than 8 hrs. Remember this will have a great effect on your exam. And have your food as in your daily diet. Don't fast on exam day. This will have reverse effect, so please have food properly. There are some food items you have to avoid and some other you have to include in your diet on exam day. Check for them later in this article (in tips for parents),And don't forget to have a glass water before you go to bed, essential to keep your brain cells charged!!!
The 7^th tip : Write and Present well.
The presentation is the major factor that affects your marks. Whatever you studied or prepared your marks will depend on how you present them in the answer sheet. The teachers may not be able to read all what you have written. Remember daily they are going through 30 to 40 papers.They will scan for points. So try to present answers in points. In essay questions don't forget to underline the important points . Your hand writing also affects your marks. Try to write neatly. if it is not good enough, don't worry, if you presented it in a good manner you can score more marks. And another important factor to remember, As we all know 'First impression is the best impression'. So, answer the questions you know well, first. This will create a good impression on the evaluator and though you couldn't write some last answers well, that won't deduct your mark much. And care shall be taken so that you manage time well and is able to attend all questions. If there is any question out of syllabus, you just attend it. Usually full marks are awarded for such questions.
The 8^th tip: Never malpractise in exam hall.
Dear students never malpractise in exam hall as it may even affect your marks and also some times you won't be allowed to continue the exam. If you don't know answer don't write. Keep in mind that you are writing exam for you, to prove yourself. There will be no problem if you have followed the above steps, For sure you can score good marks.
The 9^th tip: Believe in God, Believe in you.
The last but not the least point pray well before the exam and your mind should be free at least 5 minutes before exam. Pray can give immense energy and peace to your mind that will definitely do good for you.And it is much important that you are confident about what you can and will always produce pleasant result.

Also remember one thing please don't discuss soon after exams.This won't do good and may affect your coming exams.If your friends are discussing question paper avoid them and come to house soon.

It's life Jim, but not as we know it .........

Life is such a delicate balance - how to juggle college, home and the outside world!!! It's Saturday, and I just remembered I forgot to post my blog this week. Tuesday supposed to be my day. I forgot to cook dinner last Tuesday I was so tired, and was wondering why I was hungry going to bed.
We just saw the end of week 5 and our first two exams are next week - Botany and Chemistry. At least we'll have them out of the way and can spend the bank holiday concentrating on the remainder. Our Chemistry learning support never materialised, but big thank you to Mary Lehane, who's gonna let us sit in on her tutorials with her own classes on Thursday and Friday. It's too late for the coming assessments for some of us, but hopefully we can play catch up with our grades by Christmas.
I'm in Cork now 6 weeks, and have been out once in Cork city in that time. The few friends I have here ask me when I'll be free to socialise a little and I tell them some time around the middle of December .........
Gonna try and defy my technological limitations next week and actually post a video....... watch this space......

''Time to knuckle down lads''

   Well into October at this stage and the first exams are around the corner.As the comedian Pat Shortt so aptly puts it;''it's time to knuckle down'',the concept of being seated in an exam hall again fills me with fear and trepidation but I suppose it's the same for all students regardless of age.As a mature student it's been a while since my last official exam but it has to be done.
    On a more positve note I have finally been allowed to register officially and I have a student card to prove it,this now allows me access to the library and IT centre.All in all everything is going reasonably well although the lectures are coming at us thick and fast and of course every lab practical has to be written up which is fairly time consuming to say the least.It's no wonder I keep wondering as to where all my free or me time has gone,everything was so different up until six weeks ago.
    The weather here in Cork has been absolutely gorgeous of late but I don't seem to have the time to get out there and enjoy it,I don't seem to have the time to do anything at all,TIME HAS BECOME SUCH A VALUABLE COMMODITY and it's no surprise to me that I don't  even have the time to even ''KNUCKLE DOWN

Sick of being sick...

I can't believe another week has just passed. My big plans to do some proper study this weekend finished early Saturday morning :( In the last week I have joined the increasing group of people who have colds and flu. I spent most of the weekend in bed with only a high temperature for company. My house looks like a little pharmacy now because I'm under pressure to get well soon. Working in a hospital doesn’t help to fight infection so garlic, lemon and honey are compulsory now in my diet. Basically the whole weekend was a waste. I’m very anxious because our first assignments are due in two weeks time. I'm stressed and worried that I won't learn things on time... Sorry that my entry is so short this week but I still feel very sick.

Olga

Herbal Herald interview with mentor Niamh O'Brien (4th years Herbal Science student, C.I.T.)

meltdown

All got a bit much for me last week. Had a bit of a breakdown in Chemistry, thinking I'll never understand this. Talked to the lecturer afterwards (in between sobs), and he was very supportive. Spoke to the Head of Department since and he's going to try to organise chemistry learning support for the class, or for those of us who need it anyway. I think it's the subject that most of us (nearly half the class) are struggling with. I find as time goes on the pieces of the jigsaw fall into place, especially when in other classes we cover similar ground. But it's still a struggle. Was feeling very despondent last week, but a bit more positive and less panicked this week. Trying not to lose sleep over the fact that we have assessments in all subjects in less than 3 weeks time, just get the books out and read read read! Late with my blog this week as I've no internet access at home yet, out in Clonakilty now, starting on my plant log, so spent an hour or so picking flowers. What a lovely way to start the day.
Maggie

'Ah Go On; You will,You will,You will'

Can hardly believe it but we're into week 4 already and our first exam looms large around the corner.On a healthier note I have given up the coffee and from now on it's a plain old simple cup of tea for me.Thoughts of Mrs Doyle from 'Father Ted' come to mind every time I  add the teabag but I have been sleeping much better and in the longrun it is undoubtedly better for my health.Afterall I am in Cork,the home of 'Barry's'.
   The lectures are coming at us fast and hard,some more interesting than others but that is to be expected.I have been having some problems registering as I am being told that I am not a 'standard applicant',still I  have spoken to Hugh,our head of department and this should all be sorted by friday.Finally I'll have a student card and can avail of all the resources that comes with that privilege,access to the library and to blackboard to name a couple.
   Till next week and a further posting from a non-standard tea-drinking mature student,it's over and out

October

Can't believe it’s already October. Week number 4 begins tomorrow. My first college exam is only two weeks away! Scary stuff... I spent my weekend writing up lab reports and cleaning up my lovely new house. The best part about my new place is its location - just 15 min walk from CIT (which gives me extra time in the mornings). Finding time for myself is getting more difficult with every passing week. Last week in anatomy class we covered a few topics including sugars, lipids and amino acids, which I found pretty interesting. Amino acids are pretty complicated structures to study but reading the notes a few times cleared it up in my mind. My favourite part of the week is the Friday Chemistry lab. We carried out an experiment on soluble iron salt in this week’s lab. It was complicated, but very interesting. Then, after only four hours working at my job, my weekend officially began. See you next week!

Olga

on a less self indulgent note - Bye Shizuka

Guess we all know by now that Shizuka has left the course. She's disappointed about leaving but hoping to defer til next year. We'll miss her on the team, she had many hidden talents starting to shine through. She was my first physics lab partner and got me through the procedure without a hitch. She'll be busy in the meantime, working and studying part time. We wish you all the best Shizuka and sorry we didn't all get to know you more. Mind yourself  xxx

This is the key to my new house in cork .........

...... which hardly seems relevant to college, but now it means I can take my stuff out of boxes, file my books and college notes and actually have the space to study, write, organise myself!!! I've been feeling temporary and stressed for the last 3 weeks, trying to get used to getting up in the morning, commuting, studying, meeting deadlines ......... while looking for a place to live.  Had to skip Botany in Clonakilty today to sign the lease, get the keys etc... but I can get the notes off my classmates. I studied Horticulture before so of all the subjects it'll be the easiest to catch up..... and yes indeed Olga, I know I'm not the only one when it comes to chemistry :) I'll have a more difficult commute but it's a lovely quiet area, ideal for the more mature student. Having my own place also means I can finally bring my dog down to Cork, which will give me that sense of permanency. She's being minded in Westmeath at the moment.

and this is my dog .........

..... couldn't resist putting this up cos she's sooooo cute. When she's here with me in Cork, it means I've arrived!!!

'Addicted to Caffeine'

   Week 3 and all going reasonably well.I now know all my classmates on a first term basis.We have elected our class rep. and there is talk of us all hitting the town for a social drink over the weekend.Sadly our japanese classmate seems to have dropped out but we as a group hope to stay in contact with her.

   Have decided to get up that little bit earlier in the mornings so as to secure a much sought after and necessary parking space.Have also noticed that my daily caffeine intake has reached new levels,I am finding it rather difficult to keep my attention levels up in the afternoon,must find a herbal caffeine- alternative as after all I am studying Herbal Science.Andy Duffy

Heading in the right direction (slowly)

Week 2 in college is done. I’m slowly finding my way around the CIT buildings and I can find the location of my locker.

Yesterday we had our first day in the chemistry lab. I have never been in the laboratory before so I was feeling anxious. We performed an experiment on Copper Sulfate. I enjoyed it a lot and now can’t wait for the next lab. Unfortunately I am not looking forward to the chemistry lectures. Their level is much higher than I expected (Maggie you are not the only one). I’d better get a good chemistry book!

People at work were very helpful and finally I have sorted out my working hours. I was very worried last week that I could lose my job but the stress has passed now. I’m moving house this weekend, thinking about packing gives me shivers... Hope you all had a good week!

Olga Lesniak

Week Two;only Ninety Four to go

Settling in nicely, know most of my fellow first year Herbal Science class by their first names, if only remembering the contents of some of the lectures was as easy !! Anyway have my accomodation sorted which is a huge relief, am staying in Ballinhassig, a little village roughly five miles from C.I.T.

College life seems to be going well. Am possibly drinking too much coffee during the day, it's the only thing that keeps me from falling asleep during the afternoon classes. My only bone of contention is the lack of parking space in the college. Too many students and not enough car spaces.

Andy Duffy

la la la la la la la............

Well I was never a great swimmer but I'm sinking already!! Day 2 Week 2 and I'm struggling. I go into Chemistry all eager and expectant and come out with a brain full of porridge. Luckily I can ask for help and I'm already tapping into support nextworks. Funny, I though Physics would be the problem, but so far it's just number crunching. I'm sure I'm not the only one struggling, though I'm probably the most vocal about it!

I'm usually exhausted after my day in college, Thursday is the only chance for a lie in. I'm hungry all the time too, my brain's not used to this level of usage and needs fuel - I'll be as big as a house by the time I'm finished this course. Eating 2 full dinners a day. It's not all doom and gloom, I am enjoying being a student. I love learning and I was expecting to be challenged. I can get the threads of most stuff, just have trouble knitting it into a recognisable garment.

We've been told in the Creativity Module that we have to produce a newsletter. We were all a bit alarmed at how quickly everything is moving, especially as our group is group 1 and we were chosen first with a deadline of 1st October - that's only Friday week! Siobhan agreed to give us a week's grace and hand it in the 8th October - collective sigh of relief and we'll have a group meeting Thursday.

It was societies day today so I  signed up for the Yoga. I keep forgetting my mantra of "slowly gently calmly..." or was it "get a move on I haven't got all day".  Had to resort to Rescue Remedy today to calm me down. Anyway, reminding myself to breathe..........
Maggie

Shizuka Nakashima - a busy bee

I moved to Ireland after having a bit of a hectic life in Japan, and decided to return to education to study herbal science, which I have been interested in for a long time. This is the first week in the college and I am still trying to get used to student life in Cork Institute of  Technology. I studied Food Science in a post leaving certificate school until this May. I hope the basic prior knowledge about sciences I got there will help me to have a smooth start here. Today I am in Clonakilty to do a Botany module with my classmates enjoying the picturesque sunny view from the window. Looking forward to the challenge !

Maggie O'Keeffe - calmly gently slowly

After 3 years of unemployment I was nervous and excited about relocating to Cork from Dublin to start the Herbal Sciences course. I'm midway through the first week and absolutely exhausted from the early mornings and the long days - and we haven't even had a full day yet! I spent the first two days like a headless chicken trying to find my way around the campus, think I've got the hang of it now. Day 3, Wednesday, the class went to Clonakilty for the Botany aspect of the course. I did my FETAC level 5 in horticulture, so felt I had a head start in this subject, but realise now that I've forgotten more than I know! Better start revising. I think for me the biggest challenges will be chemistry and physics. My sense of panic and anxiety is gradually subsiding and I'm remembering to breath ..........

Olga Lesniak - busy times

My first week in college is very stressful, juggling college work, housework, and my part time job. I've met many interesting people and other friendly faces. I'm stressed because I have a part time job, five evenings a week, working in a hospital, so my day begins at 7am and finishes very very late. However, hoping to sort out things and enjoy studying. My teammates are confident that everything will fall into place for me! Let's plant some herbs now!!

Andy Duffy - a fresher start

This is my first week in CIT. So far so good. Meeting lots of new people, trying to get my head around the new environment and timetable. Today I have come with my class to Clonakilty Agricultural College. What a beautiful view from the canteen! Looking forward to the future. Wish me luck. Peace and love.